First Impressions of Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt immediately strikes you as a serious piece of kit, a purpose-built hauler for photographers venturing into challenging environments. Tamrac, a name synonymous with reliable camera bags, seems to have poured decades of experience into this offering, promising both protection and portability for valuable equipment. I was particularly drawn to its promise of lightweight durability and the inclusion of a removable belt system, features often overlooked in camera bags.
My old camera bag, a generic hiking backpack repurposed for photography, was simply not cutting it anymore. It lacked dedicated compartments, offered minimal impact protection, and became excruciatingly uncomfortable during long hikes with my gear. I needed a backpack that could handle the rigors of outdoor photography while providing easy access and secure storage for my DSLR, lenses, and accessories; the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt appeared to be the answer.
Upon unboxing the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt, I was immediately impressed with its robust construction and well-thought-out design. The materials felt durable and weather-resistant, while the internal dividers seemed highly customizable to accommodate different gear configurations. It felt lighter than expected for its size, a definite plus for long treks.
I considered the Peak Design Everyday Backpack and the LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II before settling on the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt. The Peak Design, while stylish, seemed less rugged for serious outdoor use. The LowePro felt bulky and lacked the streamlined profile I was seeking.
My first impression of the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt was one of cautious optimism, leaning towards excitement. It appeared to be a well-engineered backpack ready to tackle demanding photographic expeditions. Whether it lives up to the promise remains to be seen through rigorous field testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt was a weekend photography trip to the Ansel Adams Wilderness in the Sierra Nevada. I used it to carry my DSLR, three lenses, a flash, filters, batteries, and a 13-inch laptop, along with some personal items. The conditions were varied, ranging from sunny alpine meadows to dense, shaded forests, with a brief rain shower in the afternoon.
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt performed admirably in these diverse conditions. The customizable dividers kept my gear secure and organized, preventing any unwanted shifting during the hike. The included rain fly proved its worth during the downpour, keeping my equipment dry.
I was initially concerned about the weight, but the airflow harness system and the removable belt distributed the load effectively. It allowed for comfortable hiking even on steep inclines. I did notice that accessing the side pockets while wearing the backpack was a bit awkward, requiring me to remove the pack.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including several more hiking trips and a few urban photography outings, the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt has proven its durability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even on the high-stress areas like the zippers and straps. The 840D Polyester Dobby and 500D Cordura Nylon materials are clearly holding up well.
Cleaning the backpack is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and dust. I did have to use a mild detergent to remove some mud stains after one particularly messy hike, but the fabric cleaned up easily without any discoloration.
Compared to my previous repurposed hiking bag, the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt is a revelation. It provides far superior protection, organization, and comfort, significantly enhancing my overall photography experience. The Tamrac significantly outperforms it, making the old bag a relic of the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt
Specifications
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt boasts impressive specifications that highlight its blend of durability and functionality. It has external dimensions of 12 x 17 x 10 inches (31 x 44 x 25 cm) and internal dimensions of 11 x 16 x 6.5 inches (28 x 41 x 16 cm), providing ample space for camera gear and accessories. The backpack weighs in at 4.4 lb, a respectable weight considering its robust construction.
The Anvil 17 is constructed from a blend of high-quality materials, including 840D Polyester Dobby w/2x PU Coating, 500D Cordura Nylon w/2x PU Coating, and 210D Oxford Nylon. These materials offer excellent abrasion resistance and water repellency, crucial for protecting valuable equipment in challenging environments.
Special features include a padded laptop compartment that fits most 15-inch laptops, a comfortable airflow harness system with a removable belt, and a fully seam-sealed weather-protective rain fly. There is also a quick-release tripod attachment system and customizable foam dividers. These features provide significant advantages in terms of usability, comfort, and protection.
Performance & Functionality
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt excels at its primary function: carrying and protecting camera gear. The customizable dividers allow for efficient organization of different lenses, bodies, and accessories, preventing them from bumping into each other during transport. The padded laptop compartment provides secure storage for a laptop or tablet, adding versatility to the backpack.
The Anvil 17’s strength lies in its balanced design. It offers ample storage capacity without being overly bulky or cumbersome. A minor weakness is the side pocket access while wearing the backpack.
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt exceeds my expectations in terms of comfort and protection. It provides a secure and comfortable way to carry my gear, even during extended hikes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The materials used are of high quality and contribute to the backpack’s overall durability and weather resistance. The airflow harness system is comfortable and helps to distribute the load evenly, reducing strain on the back and shoulders.
The backpack’s design is user-friendly. The main compartment opens wide for easy access to the gear, and the customizable dividers allow for flexible organization. The YKK zippers operate smoothly and reliably. There is a slight learning curve in optimizing the divider configuration for specific gear, but this is quickly overcome.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt is built to last. The robust materials and reinforced stitching ensure that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care, this backpack should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth will keep the backpack looking its best, and the occasional use of a mild detergent can remove stubborn stains. The durable materials are resistant to fading and abrasion, ensuring that the backpack maintains its appearance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt comes with a fully seam-sealed weather-protective rain fly for added protection in wet conditions. Its side Arc attachment points hold M.A.S. and S.A.S. components and a variety of other accessories including M.O.L.L.E., allowing for external pouch attachment. There are protective foam dividers that are fully customizable for gear.
The backpack is compatible with various third-party accessories, such as lens pouches, filter cases, and tripod straps. Its flexibility allows photographers to tailor it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt
Pros
- Highly customizable interior to fit a variety of camera gear configurations.
- Comfortable airflow harness system and removable belt for all-day carrying comfort.
- Durable construction with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Protective laptop compartment for added versatility.
- Includes a fully seam-sealed weather-protective rain fly for protection in wet conditions.
Cons
- Side pocket access can be awkward while wearing the backpack.
- The price point may be a barrier for some budget-conscious photographers.
Who Should Buy Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt?
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt is perfect for serious amateur and professional photographers who need a durable, comfortable, and versatile backpack for carrying their gear in various environments. Landscape, wildlife, and adventure photographers will benefit most from its rugged construction and customizable interior. It is equally well-suited for urban photographers who need a secure and convenient way to transport their equipment.
Photographers who primarily shoot in controlled studio environments or who only need to carry a minimal amount of gear may find the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt to be overkill. Those on a tight budget may also want to consider less expensive alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a set of additional dividers to further customize the interior. A high-quality tripod and a reliable set of lens filters are also recommended for serious photographers.
Conclusion on Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt
The Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt is an exceptional camera bag that delivers on its promises of durability, comfort, and versatility. It provides excellent protection for valuable equipment and offers a high degree of customization to suit individual needs. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the investment.
The Anvil 17 offers a robust and comfortable solution for carrying photography equipment. It is a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.
I would highly recommend the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt to anyone looking for a top-quality camera bag that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Invest in your photography, and invest in the Tamrac Anvil 17 Backpack w/Belt!